What is a custody evaluation?

A custody evaluation is a process used in Virginia (and other states) to determine what type of child custody arrangement is in the best interests of the child. This evaluation is typically conducted by a court-appointed professional, such as a psychologist or social worker, who will evaluate all aspects of the child’s life and the parents’ ability to care for the child. The evaluator looks at many factors such as the parents’ relationship with the child, the parenting skills of each parent, the parents’ home environments, and the child’s own feelings and desires. The evaluator will speak with both parents, review court documents, and observe the interactions between parents and the child. After gathering information, the evaluator will provide a written report to the court with a recommendation for the best arrangement for the child. The court may take the evaluator’s recommendation into consideration in making a custody decision. Ultimately, though, Virginia courts have the final say in child custody matters. Therefore, a custody evaluation can be a helpful tool for the court in making custody decisions, but it is not the only factor that will be taken into consideration.

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What is a custody evaluation?

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